South Asians mobilize to hold Council candidates accountable

NEW YORK: Five South Asian community-based organizations have come together to host a candidate's forum in Jackson Heights, NY, for the South Asian community in District 25.

Recognizing the importance of civic engagement for the South Asian community, Adhikaar, Chhaya, DRUM, SAYA! and SEVA have come together to organize the forum which will mark an unprecedented political step for the community as they hold the city council candidates running from District 25, accountable.

Using customized data on registered South Asian voters in the district developed by SEVA's Desis Vote project, youth volunteers have been canvassing to contact over 4,000 registered South Asians. Volunteers have been door knocking and informing community members about the debate. Flyers have been developed to raise awareness on the City government and the role of Council members.

Nikhal Ranu, a youth member of SAYA!, commented: "My goal is to make the South Asian community understand that nothing comes for free. If they want their voices heard and their problems addressed, they need to come out and speak for themselves. The candidates running for election need to know that we stand strong."

Jackson Heights has been the cultural hub for the South Asian community in the tri-state area for the past three decades. According to the 2000 Census, the South Asian American population - a diverse and vibrant group with roots in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, as well as the Diaspora from the Caribbean - in the district grew by 53% over a decade. The aim of this campaign is to ensure that the unique issues, needs and challenges of one of the largest immigrant groups in District 25 are adequately represented by the elected officials.

Together, the organizations serve roughly 3,000 individuals per year. Adhikaar seeks to promote human rights and social justice in the Nepali community; Chhaya is focused on improving access to housing opportunities for South Asian Americans; DRUM advocates for the rights of low wage immigrant workers, and families fighting deportation; SAYA! levels the playing field for South Asian youth across Queens through various after-school programs; SEVA works at the grassroots level to enhance the upward mobility of the South Asian community through community organizing.

India Post News Service